Defence allocation hiked 15 per cent to Rs 7.8 lakh crore in Budget 2026-27

IANS | February 1, 2026 3:33 PM

New Delhi, Feb 1 (IANS) Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced an allocation of Rs 7.8 lakh crore for the country’s defence sector in the Union Budget for 2026-27, representing a 15 per cent increase over the corresponding figure of Rs 6.81 lakh crore for the previous financial year.

Union Budget 2026-27 highlights: Customs simplified, duties slashed; tax reforms ease trade and living

IANS | February 1, 2026 3:30 PM

New Delhi, Feb 1 (IANS) The Union Budget 2026–27 presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman marks a decisive step in reshaping India’s tax and trade landscape. With reforms spanning customs, indirect taxation, direct tax rationalisation, and incentives for cooperatives and the IT sector, the proposals aim to simplify compliance, reduce burdens, and strengthen competitiveness.

Thailand Masters: Devika Sihag wins maiden Super 300 title after Goh Jin Wei retires

IANS | February 1, 2026 3:29 PM

Bangkok, Feb 1 (IANS): Young Indian badminton player Devika Sihag has etched her name in the history books as she won the women’s singles crown at the Thailand Masters Super 300 tournament on Sunday. Devika has become only the third Indian shuttler, after stalwarts PV Sindhu and Saina Nehwal, to win a women's singles title in a Super 300.

Govt allocates Rs 1,06,530.42 crore for health in Budget 2026

IANS | February 1, 2026 3:28 PM

New Delhi, Feb 1 (IANS) The Union Budget 2026-27 on Sunday enhanced the allocation for the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare to Rs 1,06,530.42 crore, reflecting an increase of 10 per cent over the Revised Estimates of FY 2025-26, the Ministry said.